CHRISTMAS arrived two months early at the weekend, as Santa parked his sleigh on Chelmsford High Street to launch Farleigh Hospice's annual fun run.
The Santa Fun Run began in 2008 and has already raised more than £130,000 for the hospice, which provides free care for people with life-limiting illnesses.
As potential Father Christmases limber up for the 4km dash around Central Park, organisers hope a record amount can be raised at the December event.
Cheryl Bunkle, of the hospice, said: "The Santa Fun Run has to be one of my favourite events, just because it's so much fun.
"Every year our Santas really make the effort to be as festive as possible, with some even dressing their dogs up.
"Obviously the fact that the Santa outfits are supplied is a big pull, because you don't even have to worry about finding your own.
"In fact, it's such a popular event that people have been contacting us to register, before we've even launched it."
The race will take place on December 9.
There is a £10 registration fee for adults and a £5 registration fee for children under the age of 16. The registration fee includes a Santa suit for adults and a Santa hat for children under 5ft 5ins tall.
Cheryl added: "Times are tough for everyone at the moment, including charities, but the number of local people requiring the specialist services of Farleigh Hospice carries on increasing.
"The Santa Fun Run is a great way to have fun with the whole family, get right into the Christmas spirit and do your bit to help provide care and support for local families affected by life-limiting illnesses at the same time."
The closing date for entrants is November 28 and you can register online at www.farleigh hospice.org/santa or by calling Farleigh Hospice's event team on 01245 457408, or via e-mail at events@farleighhospice.org.
